Glossary
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Glossary of Pool Terms
There are 67 entries in this glossary.B
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Backwash |
Reversing the flow of water through the filter to clean the elements and filter medium. Typical part of maintenance for sand filters and some DE filters. |
| Backwash cycle |
The time needed to backwash (clean) the filter and its components. |
| Bacteria |
Single-celled microscopic organisms. Pathogenic bacteria can cause infections, disease and bather irritation. Chlorine, Bromine, and Biguanide are used to kill bacteria in pool and spa water. |
| Bactericides |
Chemical compounds that kill bacteria. |
| Base |
See Alkali. |
| Bather |
In a Spa, a bather is anyone using a spa for a duration of 20 minutes at 102° F. |
| Bather Load |
The number of people in a pool or spa at a particular time or during a specific period of time. |
| Biguanide |
Polyhexmethylene biguanide hydrochloride. A long chain of polymeric molecules with both bactericidal and algicidal characteristics. Must be used in pool maintenance with a supporting oxidizer. (Hydrogen Peroxide) |
| Borate |
An elemental mineral used for conditioning water to provide clearer, more comfortable water |
| Breakpoint |
During chlorination, this is the point at which all combined chlorine is oxidized (removed) and only Free Available Chlorine remains in the water to kill bacteria. This point is achieved when Free Available Chlorine is 10 times higher than Combined Chlorine. |
| Bromine |
A halogen element; alternative sanitizer for pools. Most effective in spas and indoor pools. |
| Buffer |
Chemicals that serve to prevent fluctuations in pH. (See Alkalinity) Spa Sentry provides a buffer for your spa water. |